Policymakers, health professionals, workers’ and employers’ representatives, academics, and development partners gathered in Jakarta on 24 June 2026 for a policy dialogue on artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO), according to a press release. The session, titled “Intersectionality in Action: A Deep Dive with Policymakers & Practitioners on AI, Health Workforce, and Serving Vulnerable Indonesian Workers,” marked the sixth in a series of ILO discussions on AI and the world of work. The forum examined how AI is reshaping Indonesia’s health workforce and healthcare industry. It also explored practical measures to ensure technological innovation supports decent work, quality services, and equitable outcomes. More than 100 participants from diverse stakeholder groups attended.
AI is increasingly influencing how healthcare services are delivered and managed, from diagnostic tools and disease surveillance to workforce planning and administrative automation. These technologies offer opportunities to improve productivity, enhance occupational safety and health, and expand access to healthcare. At the same time, they raise important questions about the future of work in the sector. Indonesia continues to face challenges such as shortages and unequal distribution of health workers. Demographic changes, population ageing, and persistent urban-rural disparities in healthcare access add further pressure on the system.
A keynote address from Indonesia’s Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, was delivered by Eko Sulistijo, Head of the Ministry of Health’s Data and Technology Centre. The Minister underscored the potential of AI to strengthen Indonesia’s health system and expand access to quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
“As we advance our health transformation agenda, it is essential that technology complements and promotes equity in healthcare services,” said Minister Budi.
He added that the Ministry of Health is currently developing a policy framework for the use of AI in the health sector. The framework is being shaped in consultation with doctors, academics, and healthcare practitioners.
Janine Berg, Senior Researcher in the ILO Research Department in Geneva, presented findings from an ILO study on the impact of large language models (LLMs) on physicians’ clinical reasoning in Indonesia, Kenya, and the Netherlands. “Our findings suggest that AI can strengthen healthcare delivery and support clinical decision-making without replacing healthcare workers,” said Berg. She emphasized that successful adoption requires training, rigorous validation, safeguards against errors, and active involvement of healthcare professionals in governance. Simrin Singh, ILO Country Director for Indonesia and Timor-Leste, said AI should be seen as a tool to support, not replace, healthcare workers. She noted the need to ensure AI is deployed to improve outcomes, strengthen working conditions, and expand equitable access.
The forum featured panellists including dr. Laili Fathiyah of Pelni Hospital, Dr. Naurah Zainar Aufaria, dr. Adiwan Qodar of BPJS Kesehatan, and dr. Muhammad Dzaky Darmawan of CIMSA Indonesia. They discussed how AI can support healthcare workers, improve resource allocation, and expand services to remote communities, while addressing risks such as algorithmic bias and data privacy. Afif Johan of the BPJS Health Supervisory Board highlighted workforce preparedness and patient protection. Doddy Darmawan of APINDO’s Digital Health Committee underscored innovation, digital infrastructure, and skills development. The forum sought to ensure that AI contributes to stronger health systems, decent work, and improved healthcare access for all Indonesians.
